lickety-split

adv

Etymology: First attested during the 19th century, in the US, equivalent to lickedy + split, perhaps as a reference to the flick or darting of a snake's forked tongue. The forms lickety-cut and licketie are similarly attested; and forms with t are likely due to Scottish influence.

1. Quickly; as fast as possible; in short order.

   “At the sound of the starting gun, they were off and running lickety-split.”

   “I need tea right now, lickety-split.”